Ectopic and Tubal Pregnancy Symptoms

An ectopic pregnancy is a condition in which the fertilized egg attaches in an abnormal location outside the uterus. In this situation, the fetus cannot survive, and treatment is necessary to prevent complications such as rupture and bleeding. Often, the site of implantation of an ectopic pregnancy is the Fallopian tube, and is thus termed a tubal pregnancy. In the early weeks of pregnancy, the symptoms of an ectopic or tubal pregnancy are similar to those in a normal pregnancy. However, by the 6th to 8th week after the missed menstrual period, unusual and uncommon symptoms develop, including vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain. It is important to seek medical care any time you develop these or other unusual symptoms during pregnancy.